Rounds Introduces Legislation to Strengthen Cyber Operations in Indo-Pacific Region

WASHINGTON - U.S. Senators Mike Rounds (R-S.D.) and Tammy Duckworth (D-Ill.) today introduced legislation to close strategy and resource gaps in the Department of War's cyber cooperation activities in the Indo-Pacific region. The Indo-Pacific Cyber Cooperation Strategy would require the Office of the Secretary of War and the Joint Chiefs of Staff to institutionalize cyber cooperation between DOW and the United States' allies in the region.

"Modern warfare is now fought in five domains: air, land, sea, space and cyberspace," said Rounds. "As our cyber capabilities continue to advance, so do those of our adversaries. As China grows increasingly capable in the cyber domain, the United States must leverage the capacity of our partners and allies, who are crucial for securing a free and open Indo-Pacific. Our legislation would require the Department of War to close any existing cyber operations gaps that exist between our nation and our allies in the Indo-Pacific Region."

"Cybersecurity is key to a free and open Indo-Pacific, strengthening our national security and keeping us all safe," said Duckworth. "As a Pacific nation, we must ensure we're strategically engaging with our regional partners across all fronts to make sure they can protect critical infrastructure and effectively operate in cyberspace. Our bipartisan bill would enhance American cyber cooperation with Indo-Pacific allies and partners to better protect our economy and security from shared adversaries and hostile actors."

Click HERE for full bill text.

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